Categories > Guides and Tips
A Foodie’s Guide to The 10 Best Restaurants in Kelowna
I’ve always believed good food makes everything better. Whether it’s a failed test or a bad day, there’s nothing a great plate won’t fix. And in Kelowna? You’re truly spoilt for choice with flavours on every street corner, serious hidden gems, and local go-to eats.
Not to be dramatic, but the Kelowna food scene genuinely changed my life. So if you love food, too, you’re in luck. Here are the exact restaurants that did just that.
Trust me, my love language is food, which is why nothing makes me happier than sharing Kelowna’s best restaurants you can’t miss!
JOEY
Media Credit: joeyrestaurants
Address: 2475 BC-97 #300
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
Contact Information: +1 250-860-8999
Price Point: $$ – $$$
Menu Highlights: JOEY Classic Steak, Blackened Chicken, Ravioli Bianco, Yellowfin Tuna Salad, Scallop & Prawn Ceviche, S’mores Ice Cream Pie
JOEY’s is perfect for a celebration or date night, your go-to for standout steak with lobster and indulgent yellowfin tuna salads. Yes, it sits at the upper end of the mid-range dining, offering solid plates that are well worth the price tag.
Trust me. Don’t be surprised if you catch yourself still thinking about them days after. And it isn’t just the flavours and quality, it’s also the experience. Hence, it’s no surprise it fills up quickly, whether it be the private booths, buzzing bar area, or seasonal patio.
Pro Tip: If you love to drink, go during happy hour (2–5 PM daily; 9 PM to closing on Sunday to Thursday) for discounts on drinks and small plates.
Cactus Club Cafe
Media Credit: cactusclubcafe
Address: 1370 Water St #1
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Friday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
Contact Information: +1 236-420-2272
Price Point: $$ – $$$
Menu Highlights: Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, Tuna Temaki, Butternut Squash Ravioli with Prawns, Grilled Dijon Salmon, Chargrilled Steak, London Fog Creme Brulee
The Cactus Club Cafe is another must-visit restaurant for its chef-designed menu with a flavor-forward lineup. At the heart of its culinary direction is Chef Rob Feenie, the first Canadian to win Iron Chef America.
It’s located on Banks Road, best if you enjoy a vibrant and trendy bar area, and Yacht Club, perfect for lakeside views and cocktails at sunset. Plus, the open kitchen adds an experiential flair as you see you the chefs and bartenders in action.
Pro Tip: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, for patio seating, and during the holiday season.
HUMO Izakaya
Media Credit: humokelowna
Address: 210 Lawrence Ave
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 3 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: 3 PM – 9:30 PM
Contact Information: +1 250-826-8218
Price Point: $$ – $$$
Menu Highlights: Sake-Miso Black Cod, Aguachile Negro, Beef Tartare, Pork Belly Tacos, Ssam Lettuce Wraps, Galbi Prime Flatiron, Adobo Beef Ribs x Bone Marrow
At the heart of downtown Kelowna, HUMO Izakaya is a unique fusion of Asian and Latin flavors, with everything made from scratch, from the house-grown herbs to hand-crafted sauces. We’ve got executive chef Kai Koroll and their creative director Alexandra Perras, who lead the kitchen together to thank.
While HUMO has only been in the culinary scene for a while, it has a solid following, many coming to Kelowna just to experience their signature ceviche with mole foam, duck empanadas, wagyu tongue sando, and tempura bao plates, to name a few.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip their bar, HUMO has a solid international sake list and unique signature cocktail line-up.
Salt & Brick
Media Credit: saltandbrick_
Address: 243 Bernard Ave
Operating Hours: Thursday to Monday: 4 PM – 10 PM
Contact Information: +1 778-484-3234
Price Point: $$ – $$$
Menu Highlights: Beretta Farms Beef Rib, Bison Bao Buns, Smoked Pork Rack, Dirty Rigatoni, Roasted Brussel Sprouts,
I’ve never liked Brussels sprouts, that is, until I’ve had them Salt & Brick-style. All it took was their Roasted Brussel Sprouts with beer-chees foam, pickled grapes, and maple to convert me. Their wildly creative menu was dreamed up by head chef Erik Fassbind, with bold and playful flavors at the forefront.
With its cozy, share-style vibe, this downtown spot is perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying local wine pairings. Frankly, I see why many locals return time and time (myself included!).
Pro Tip: For a more immersive and interactive experience, book a table close to the open kitchen to have a chat with their chefs on duty.
Bernie’s Supper Club & Cinema
Media Credit: bernieskelowna
Address: 353 Bernard Ave
Operating Hours: Daily: 4 PM – 11 PM
Contact Information: +1 778-484-9836
Price Point: $$
Menu Highlights: Wagyu Beef Dumplings, Walnut Prawns, Pesto Fries, Little Gem Salad, Tuna Crudo, Salmon Tartare, Seafood Tower, Oshi Bites, Ahi Tuna Plate, Lobster Roll, Clam Vongole, Porchetta Roast
For a night out like no other, head over to Bernie’s Supper Club & Cinema. I know the name’s got the wheels in your head turning, and you’re right–it’s a club and cinema in one. It’s mind-blowing that you can enjoy their upstairs boutique theatre while enjoying a full table service.
Alternatively, you could stay and chill at their mezzanine lounge to enjoy their iconic raw and seafood bar. Expertly prepared, their specialties like the Tuna Crudo, Salmon Tartare, and Seafood Tower are always on my order.
Pro Tip: To get the most bang for your buck, try their Three-Course Seasonal Dinner Menu at $49 per person.
Earls Kitchen + Bar
Media Credit: earlsrestaurant
Address: 211 Bernard Ave
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Contact Information: +1 250-763-2777
Price Point: $$
Menu Highlights: Steak Frites, Street Chicken Tacos, Sesame Citrus Noodle Bowl, Hawaiian Coconut Prawns, Chicken Brie & Fig Sandwich, Buffalo Cauliflower, Aburi Salmon Sushi, Wagyu Oshi Press
Founded in 1982 in Edmonton, I’m sure you’ve seen this premium-casual dining chain at least once in Canada. Headed by Executive Chef Cameron Armstrong, its menu takes inspiration from flavors from all over the world, adding flair to comfort classics.
While Earls Kitchen + Bar is a dependable pick if you’re after solid service and global plates, don’t skip their well-curated cocktail menu. While it isn’t too adventurous, their crowd-pleasers like Moscow Mules and Tokyo Cosmopolitan have a strong flavor balance that’ll have you asking for seconds.
Pro Tip: When the weather’s good, ask for a seat on the rooftop patio for one of the best views of downtown Kelowna.
Roma Nord Bistro
Media Credit: romanordbistro
Address: 421 Cawston Ave
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 4:45 PM – 10 PM
Contact Information: +1 236-420-0125
Price Point: $$
Menu Highlights: Burrata à la Caponata, Tagliolini All’astice (lobster pasta), Cacio e Pepe, Tonnarelli alla Gricia, Pizza al Taglio, Suppli, Tiramisu, Bomboloni
For authentic Roman-style Italian food, make your way to Roman Nord Bistro. Founded by Danilo and Chef Angela D’Alba, a lovely husband-and-wife duo from Rome, their menu is filled with Roman flavors complemented by fresh Okanagan ingredients.
Their charming piazza sits only 35, making it a friendly and intimate space for romantic dinner dates and celebratory meals. Speaking of, the star of the show is their house-made pasta, regardless of what kind. Me? I’m a sucker for their Cacio e Pepe. Done right, it tastes like Rome in Canada.
Pro Tip: Since the servings are generous, order to share, to get a little bit of everything.
Central Kitchen + Bar
Media Credit: centralkelowna
Address: 1155 Ellis St
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 11 PM
Contact Information: +1 250-862-8820
Price Point: $$
Menu Highlights: Braised Beef Dip, The “Big Dill” Crispy Chicken, Peach For The Stars, The “Vintage”, Italian Stallion, Lobster & Seafood Linguine, Chilli Lime Tuna Tostada, Wagyu Sushi Press
Gastro-pub comfort food has a special place in my heart. Believe me when I say that Central Kitchen + Bar is easily one of the best in Kelowna. Just thinking about their juicy “Big Dill” Crispy Chicken Sandwich or their classic The Central Club just makes my mouth water.
Their menu kind of goes around the world ,as you’ll find pizza next to poke bowls next to seafood linguine. And somehow, it all works. And the vibe? Always a good time, perfect for catching up with friends or exploring the world one plate at a time.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the magic of pairing your plates with their signature cocktails and local drinks. Not sure how? Ask the staff for some suggestions.
Skinny Duke’s Glorious Emporium
Media Credit: skinnydukes
Address: 1481 Water St
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 12 AM
Contact Information: +1 778-478-1289
Price Point: $ – $$
Menu Highlights: Five-Spice BBQ Oyster Mushrooms, Louis Pizza, Amelia Pizza, Gordie Pizza, Beef & Broccoli Noodles, Shrimp & Crab Fried Rice, Char Sui Chicken Sandwich, Smash Burger
Ever been to a 70s-themed bohemian lounge? Well, Skinny Duke’s is the closest thing you’ll get to Eric Forman’s basement, with cozy couches, velvet booths, and retro music. But the real highlight? Their personal pizzas, named after the former venue owners, are all just $10 each. What a steal, right?
Perfect for a budget-friendly night out, their mains and fusion plates are also coming in under $30, featuring pork belly, tostadas, and even Korean short rib. Their cocktails also shouldn’t be missed, coming in tiki glasses for an imaginative line-up, like Yogurt Pina Colada and the punchy Grave Digger.
Pro Tip: Save room for dessert! Their Blondie and Burnt Basque Cheesecake are local favourites for a reason, so ask early if it’s available so you don’t miss out on dessert.
Frankie We Salute You!
Media Credit: frankiewesaluteyou
Address: 1717 Harvey Ave #6
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 11 AM – 2 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday: 11 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Contact Information: +1 236-420-3338
Price Point: $$
Menu Highlights: Chorizo Ranchero Bowl, Grilled Shitake Yakitori Soba Noodles, Frankie Burger, Grilled Avocado Bowl, Chickpea Fries, Cauliflower Wings, Sesame Fries
Think vegan food can’t be crave-worthy? Prepare to be deliciously wrong. Frankie We Salute You! is here to change your mind, one insanely tasty and healthy dish at a time. Their entire menu is vegetarian or vegan-forward, with some egg dishes here and there, though mainly a plant-based cuisine.
If you think you won’t get full, think again. Their hearty Frankie Burder is iconic for selling out, their crunchy Cauliflower Wings are truly addictive, and their Sesame Fries are thin, crispy, and umami-filled.
Pro Tip: If you love sushi, you’ll enjoy their Sushi Sunday specials with plant-based sushi rolls and faux tobiko.
